ISNR Abu Dhabi 2018 to Examine Role of Artificial Intelligence in Homeland Security in Line with UAE Leadership’s Vision

AI has potential to transform national security technology, says US study

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 17 December, 2017 – Reed Exhibitions, the leading global event organiser, confirmed that in line with the UAE leadership’s vision, artificial intelligence (AI) will form an important underlying component of the eighth edition of the International Exhibition for National Security and Resilience (ISNR Abu Dhabi 2018).

The latest trends in AI and its application in homeland security will be among the key topics of the Critical Infrastructure Protection and Future of Policing forums, as well as the second editions of the exhibition’s two collocated events – Infosecurity Middle East and Major Events Safety and Security Summit (ME3S).

In line with the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, ISNR Abu Dhabi 2018, jointly organised by the Ministry of Interior and Reed Exhibitions, is set to host keynote addresses from influential government and private sector experts, hold topical discussions, and welcome Titan the Robot. The event seeks to help shape a safer connected world through exploring the impact of AI on diverse segments of national security, including big data analytics, behavioural patterns in fighting crime, response to potential threats, predictive policing, and patrolling robots.

Leveraging AI in robotics and unmanned systems, cyber security and protection, and information superiority has boosted the global supply of robots and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), resulting in decreased unit prices. Moreover, the latest innovations in this field are driving the development of new safety and security applications and facilitating unmanned patrolling operations. As for cyber and information security, AI is bolstering machine-learning capabilities, reducing the number of human-operated tasks, and enabling faster and more efficient data collection and analysis. It is also attracting more investments in software, limiting the need for hardware such as sensors, and creating demand for personnel with expertise in AI-based operations.

Ara Fernezian, Group Managing Director for the Middle East at Reed Exhibitions, said: “Over the years, the UAE leadership has clearly demonstrated its unwavering commitment to advancing technological innovation with a focus on AI. In appointing the world’s first Minister of Artificial Intelligence and introducing a nation-wide AI strategy, the country has taken unprecedented steps towards harnessing the power of this technology to drive sustainable economic growth and enhance homeland security.”

He added: “With the aim of supporting our government’s objectives and building on the success of the seven previous editions, we are keen for ISNR Abu Dhabi 2018 to feature AI across most segments and highlight its crucial role in the evolution of protective measures in cyber security as well as physical security.”

For her part, Meline Eolmezian-Soulie, Group Exhibition Director of the Security and Safety Portfolio at Reed Exhibitions, said: “AI has witnessed significant advancements over the past five years. Global trends, research, and policies continue to emphasise the importance of the technology in coping with increasing threats and boosting national resilience. According to the Artificial Intelligence and National Security study by the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School, AI offers the potential to transform national security technology. Its impact extends to spheres such as satellite imagery analysis, cyber defence, biotech, information security, nuclear safety, aerospace, and intelligence operations.”

She added: “We look forward to seeing leading AI solution providers impart technical expertise on the application of the technology in homeland security at ISNR Abu Dhabi 2018. The Future of Policing forum will dedicate one full day to AI, while the Critical Infrastructure Protection forum, ME3S, and Infosecurity Middle East will feature focus sessions addressing industry queries regarding AI ethics, responsibility and insurance. The eighth edition of the exhibition is well-poised to cement its reputation as the regional go-to event for showcasing the latest national security technologies and best practices, and driving collaboration between governments and the private sector.”

ISNR Abu Dhabi 2018 will run from 6 to 8 March 2018 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. Set to host 600 exhibitors from 55 countries in addition to over 200 government buyers and delegates, the mega security event will welcome 23,000 local and international attendees.

About Reed Exhibitions

Reed Exhibitions is the world’s leading events organiser with a growing portfolio of over 500 events in 30 countries, including trade and consumer exhibitions, conferences and meetings. With a unique network of international offices and sales promoters, the company boasts an extensive market reach: In 2016, over 7 million participants attended its events.